Mashup: Eagles' Vick confirms he owns dog

Fri, 10/12/2012 - 6:31am — Jerry Spar

Eagles quarterback Michael Vick, who served 18 months in prison for his role in a dogfighting ring, confirmed Thursday that he is a dog-owner again. Vick hinted that he was interested in acquiring a dog for his three kids when his probationary period ended last summer, and that caused an uproar among many fans.

Vick tweeted a photo of his daughter last week, and dog food was spotted in the background. He addressed the issue Thursday.

"I understand the strong emotions by some people about our family's decision to care for a pet," Vick said in a statement. "As a father, it is important to make sure my children develop a healthy relationship with animals. I want to ensure that my children establish a loving bond and treat all of God's creatures with kindness and respect. Our pet is well cared for and loved as a member of our family."

Vick, who has partnered with The Humane Society of the United States and spoken out against animal cruelty since his release from prison, called this move "an opportunity to break the cycle" of animal abuse.

"I will continue to honor my commitment to animal welfare and be an instrument of positive change," he said.